constituent 1 of 2

constituent

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adjective

Synonym Chooser

How is the word constituent distinct from other similar nouns?

Some common synonyms of constituent are component, element, and ingredient. While all these words mean "one of the parts of a compound or complex whole," constituent stresses its essential and formative character.

the constituents of a chemical compound

How are the words component and constituent related?

Both component and constituent may designate any of the substances (whether elements or compounds) or the qualities that enter into the makeup of a complex product; component stresses its separate entity or distinguishable character.

the components of a stereo system

When is it sensible to use element instead of constituent?

While the synonyms element and constituent are close in meaning, element applies to any such part and often connotes irreducible simplicity.

the basic elements of geometry

When is ingredient a more appropriate choice than constituent?

Although the words ingredient and constituent have much in common, ingredient applies to any of the substances which when combined form a particular mixture.

the ingredients of a cocktail

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of constituent
Noun
Hopefully, constituents in those districts will wake up at election time and send these representatives packing! Dp Opinion, Denver Post, 5 June 2025 The cap would increase by 1% each year. Republicans from states with high taxes like New York and California pushed House GOP leadership to further increase that cap to give their constituents a break. Jay O'Brien, ABC News, 5 June 2025
Adjective
Sometimes Congress emphasizes a different approach to meeting national security priorities; sometimes its choices are driven more by constituent job concerns. Mara Karlin, Foreign Affairs, 24 Apr. 2025 In place of functional information, assembly theory relies on a number called the assembly index, which measures the minimum number of steps required to make an object from its constituent ingredients. Quanta Magazine, 2 Apr. 2025 See All Example Sentences for constituent
Recent Examples of Synonyms for constituent
Noun
  • George acknowledges his dominant role but pretty much laughs off any frustration the other members might have felt.
    David Rooney, HollywoodReporter, 9 June 2025
  • Many of our current team members started through these programs.
    Jamie Lang, Variety, 9 June 2025
Adjective
  • And as Golosio and his team knew, an ANN designed around a multi-component working memory model could be a powerful tool for processing and creating human-like communication.
    Ben Thomas, Discover Magazine, 12 Nov. 2015
  • Perceptual convergence of multi-component mixtures in olfaction implies an olfactory white.
    Ed Yong, Discover Magazine, 20 Nov. 2012
Noun
  • American pilsners are based upon German pilsners but can incorporate a wider variety of ingredients, including corn and can be described as falling between a Bohemian pilsner and German pilsner in terms of flavor.
    Erik Ofgang, Forbes.com, 8 June 2025
  • Executive chef Nicolas Piatti sources quality ingredients from across the country to highlight the richness of the terroir and culinary traditions.
    Kristin Braswell, Travel + Leisure, 7 June 2025
Adjective
  • The hybrid arrangement meant that ratings for each individual game fluctuated widely within the series.
    Jason Clinkscales, Sportico.com, 3 June 2025
  • This is what gives each individual contributor the drive to go above and beyond.
    Matthew Kayser, USA Today, 3 June 2025
Noun
  • By assessing population data, demographics and neighborhoods can be identified as lacking certain elements.
    FNU Anupama, Forbes.com, 10 June 2025
  • The new customization center will incorporate renewable energy with built in energy-efficient design elements in lighting, water consumption and overall layout.
    Lauren Parker, Sourcing Journal, 9 June 2025
Noun
  • Good drainage, a spot in full sun, fertile soil, and adequate space are all factors in successfully growing dahlias in pots.
    Andy Wilcox, Better Homes & Gardens, 3 June 2025
  • Hormonal factors Hormonal fluctuations as part of menstrual cycles, pregnancy, and perimenopause can impact emotional regulation, sometimes significantly, according to Dr. Potter.
    Melissa Willets, Parents, 3 June 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Constituent.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/constituent. Accessed 17 Jun. 2025.

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